Getting ready for the season with new tool?

Posted Friday, January 22, 2010, at 8:58 AM

Cape Cod Weeder for tight spaces and precision weeding

Richard sent me this picture of a new weeding tool he picked up at a landscaper's short course this week. I agree that it looks like a sweet tool and he is anxious to get out there in the garden with it. Can you imagine, someone wanting to get out there and weed? I understand PERFECTLY!

It was sold as a Cape Cod Weeder. I am not sure if that is a brand name or a style name so keep in mind that all tools are not made alike. While there are several tools out there looking similar, their steel, handle and curves can make a big ergonomic difference to your hand after 10 minutes of use.

This one has a curve in the metal shaft that helps in positioning the blade. A straight shaft would be easier to make but the little curve is there for a reason. Same thin for the grip. The type of wood will affect weathering and retention of the metal shaft inside it. The lathed grooves in the handle improve grip and reduce cramps from extensive use.

A less expensive, smooth/straight handle would save some money, but depending on the quality of wood and angle of the blade, it could make a big difference in your satisfaction. It may sound like I am selling this particular version, but I am just trying to point out that subtle difference need to be considered.

I have found Cape Cod Weeders and Japanese weeders in prices from $15 to $50+. The $15 might be tempting but look at the design. If possible, feel it in person or at the very least demand a money back guarantee if you order it by mail order or internet.

LOL Steve...I thought you said "Richard sent me this picture of a new wedding tool he picked up at a landscaper's short course this week.

Instead it said "weeding, not wedding"...big difference.

-- Posted by AmericanWoman on Fri, Jan 22, 2010, at 9:33 AM

Yes, I believe that would be a unique wedding tool. Maybe a wedding to which I would not want to be invited.

With my typing ability, it could easily be wedding, so I went back to check as well.

-- Posted by stevemills on Fri, Jan 22, 2010, at 10:25 AM

I do most of my weeding with the bilateral-hand-10-finger-pick tool!

-- Posted by welkindance on Fri, Jan 22, 2010, at 11:22 AM

Steve,

I'm ready to get my hands dirty. It won't be long before I start getting ready to plant my early vegetables, I like to push the limits with my early ones. And the vendor actually didn't call any thing, but it is similar to one of the Japanese weeders that Lee Valley Tools has.

-- Posted by rtdavis62 on Fri, Jan 22, 2010, at 12:48 PM

I also, have a tool I bought last summer, it is called a Cobrahead weeder, for tight narrow places. Works well.

Steve Mills and his wife have one daughter. They previously owned two coffee/ice cream shops, currently operate an internet sales company and teach classes, but his primary job involves the paper industry worldwide. Hobbies and interests lie in gardening, photography, recorded music and of course, their pets.